Reasons for a cervical stitch

The cervix normally remains closed during pregnancy and opens for birth. If it shortens or opens earlier than expected, the pregnancy may be at risk of preterm labour or pregnancy loss. A previous late miscarriage or early birth, an operation involving the cervix, or a short cervix on ultrasound may lead to closer review.

A stitch, also called a cervical cerclage, is placed around the cervix to help it stay closed. It is not suitable for everyone. The maternity team considers pregnancy stage, examination findings, contractions, bleeding, infection, and the individual history before recommending it.

Attend cervical-length scans or specialist appointments offered to you, and share details of previous pregnancy outcomes. Ask how a [Cervical Cerclage](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/cervical-cerclage/) is placed, what anaesthesia is used, and how follow-up works. Learn about [Preterm Labour](/conditions/preterm-labour/) so you recognise symptoms early. Do not insert anything vaginally or change activity restrictions without personalised advice.

Call your maternity team promptly for regular cramps or tightenings, pelvic pressure, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, fever, chills, or unpleasant-smelling discharge. These symptoms can signal labour, ruptured membranes, or infection and need assessment. Seek urgent help for severe pain or heavy bleeding.

Ask why a stitch is being suggested, whether monitoring alone is reasonable, when it would be placed or removed, and which activities or symptoms should prompt a call. Ask how the plan changes if contractions, bleeding, or fluid leakage begins.